Office for Youth

The Office for Youth is the key agency driving a whole-of-government agenda in relation to Victorians aged 12 to 25. It is responsible for policy advice, research and strategic planning relating to government policies, programs and service delivery for young Victorians. It is also responsible for providing opportunities and channels for young people’s opinions to be considered by government.

On 1 January 2011, the Office for Youth moved from the Department of Planning and Community Development to the Department of Human Services. This move acknowledges the whole-of-government approach the Office for Youth takes in its work and the important role it can play in influencing broader youth policy.

The Office for Youth is working to build productive whole-of-government relationships and stronger linkages between its own programs and policies and the other programs that are supported by the Department of Human Services, especially across areas such as homelessness, youth justice, disability and families.

The Office for Youth delivers programs and initiatives that support the social, civic and economic participation of young people which has a positive and long-lasting effect on our society’s development. The Office for Youth's programs and policies aim to give young Victorians the opportunities they need to develop their skills, confidence and connections to their communities to help them make the most of their futures.